“It is outrageous that some failed politicians in Zamfara are sponsoring youths and other proxies to demand a state of emergency, just when security has improved, and economic activities are picking up after over 13 years of banditry,”
— Shinkafi
By Cyril Mbah, Abuja
A non-governmental organization, Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, has strongly condemned calls by certain political elements for a state of emergency to be declared in Zamfara State.
The group described such calls as a deliberate attempt to destabilize the state, which has made significant progress in restoring peace and security.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday, the group’s Executive Director, Alhaji (Dr.) Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, warned that such demands were politically motivated and aimed at plunging Zamfara back into chaos.
“It is outrageous that some failed politicians in Zamfara are sponsoring youths and other proxies to demand a state of emergency, just when security has improved, and economic activities are picking up after over 13 years of banditry,” Shinkafi stated.
The group commended President Bola Tinubu and the military for their sustained efforts in combating armed bandits and other criminal elements in Zamfara and the North West. According to them, this aligns with Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which states that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.
Describing those pushing for a state of emergency as “enemies of the people,” the group insisted that such individuals should not only be ignored but also investigated by security agencies.
“There is no justification for removing a duly elected governor under a false pretense of a state of emergency. The Supreme Court has already ruled that suspending a governor and appointing a sole administrator is unconstitutional and undemocratic,” the group emphasized.
Citing Section 188 and Section 305 of the Constitution, the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development stated that Zamfara does not meet the constitutional criteria for a state of emergency.
“If we were to follow the logic of these political hirelings, then a state of emergency should be declared in all 36 states and the FCT, considering the widespread challenges of terrorism, insurgency, and other security threats nationwide. But democracy does not work that way, and Mr. President, as a constitutional leader, will not succumb to such reckless demands.”
The group praised Governor Dauda Lawal for his visionary leadership, which they said has fostered cooperation with the federal government and security agencies to combat banditry in Zamfara.
“Zamfara citizens have endured enough suffering. Now is the time for reconstruction, economic revival, and true democratic dividends. Politicians should rise above selfish interests and support the state’s progress, rather than engage in destructive power struggles,” the statement concluded.
The Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development reaffirmed their commitment to peace, democracy, and national stability, vowing to resist any unconstitutional attempts to disrupt governance in Zamfara or any other part of Nigeria.
